The tanker skidded, spilled fuel, and ignited after the crash, killing dozens, officials said

Reuters

October 22, 2025

Less than a minute read

A file image of burnt oil tanker in Nigeria. PHOTO: AFP

A fuel tanker overturned and exploded in Nigeria’s northern Niger state on Tuesday, killing at least 35 people, the Federal Road Safety Corps said.

The vehicle skidded off the road and spilled petrol, which ignited shortly after the crash, according to Aishatu Saádu, FRSC sector commander in Niger state. She said the victims were taken to a nearby hospital.

Such incidents are common in Africa’s most populous country, where petroleum products are transported by road due to limited pipeline infrastructure. Poorly maintained roads riddled with potholes contribute to frequent accidents that claim dozens of lives annually.